Into the Wild Blog #2

There is absolutely no question that Chris McCandless was extremely unprepared for his adventure into the wild. There is also no question that he KNEW he was unprepared. Jim Gallien, a union electrician in Anchorage, warned "Alex" that he was dangerously unprepared, and even offered to buy him some decent gear. He knew. But as I said in my last post, I believe that he wanted to completely leave behind his life of luxury. He wanted to survive on the land, and probably thought it was possible with the little amount of supplies that he had. Was he blinded of the facts because of his excitement? Possibly. I do not believe that he intended on dying on his journey; he truly thought that he could survive.
By telling the end of the story at the beginning, Jon Krakauer almost validates himself as a journalist in a way. But more imporantly, it helps develop the story. It is a very interesting to way of writing, and I'm honestly not quite sure how I feel about it yet. However, I guess I do like that he tells the ending, but then almost goes into a backstory through various witnesses who he has interviewed and explains ending through the story. It is defintiley intriguing, and I am excited to read on.
After reading Chris' S.O.S. note, I have very mixed feelings. I wasn't quite sure how to react to it. I could tell that he was desperate for help, but I almost got the impression that he could make his way back to civilization. He said "remain here" as he went to go get berries. Chris McCandless is a very interesting character, and I am interested in learning more about him.

Into the Wild Blog #1

I feel that McCandless felt the need to get out on his own and find adventure. I feel that he had lived a relatively normal life, going through the motions, and was seen as a bright intellectual. The world had him figured out, but he on the other hand, did not. He was raised in a wealthier upbringing, and I believe that he felt there was something more to life than luxury. Therefore he journeyed "into the wild" not only to find adventure, but to find himself. I admire him for this reason. He went against the current and traded in his normal life for one of adventure and uncertainty. I also admire him for his determination. He had this idea--this wild and insane idea--and was bound and determined to follow through with it. People attempted to stop him, but I can almost picture the ambitious look in his eyes. "There was just no talking the guy out of it...he was determined. Real gung ho. The word that comes to mind is excited. He couldn’t wait to head out there and get started” (Krakauer 6).

Despite his admirable traits, there are many puzzle pieces that I have yet to figure out. Why did he tell no one of his plans? Why did he travel so light? Why did he change his name to Alex? Is he slightly crazy? To the last question: Yes. I do believe that he is a little crazy. But it's the kind of crazy that is almost...inspirational; a craziness that is driven by a purpose. I cannot help but respect Chris, or Alex, McCandless. He's got guts.